G. MITCHELL DAVIS
The world without photography will be meaningless to us if there is no light and color, which opens up our minds and expresses passion.
So I now have the title of the Official “Re-Shooter” of the Tampa Bay Storm Dancers. Truth is, there is a really funny story here but I like my job so those that know will be laughing and those that don’t will just have to wonder. Storm dancers photo shoot take “3”.
Tonight was the 98 Rockfest and the best part of it was that my friends from Sevendust were in town. This is a crazy show, 13 bands and it’s an all day event. Sevendust did an unplugged show in the afternoon which was great. Paper Tongue’s, Hellyeah, Sevendust, Puddle of Mudd, Limp Bizkit and Alice in Chains. One of the highlights had to be Wes Borland of Limp Bizkit. Wes is known for wearing off the wall outfits and make-up but today’s was insane. Next year Vinny, I promise that I’ll make my Lasagne for ya!
This must be the hardest sport I have ever shot. First of all, they skate faster than Hockey players. But the worst part is there is always dramatic lighting. So, try shooting a Hockey game in the dark. The great part is I get to shoot some of the biggest Olympic Figure Skaters in the world like John Zimmerman and Kyoko Ina, Katarina Witt and Jamie Sale & Davis Pelletier.
One of the things I love about my job is each shoot is different. Each assignment is a new challenge. This was a great concert, unless you were a photographer! We got to shoot one song, the fog machine was set to over drive and the lighting director pointed 80,000 watts of light into the front row. I swear that’s Alicia in the cage, Trust me!
Tonight I got my first chance to work with the Storm as their new Team Photographer. Yesterday I shot all of the team’s PR Photographs. I also got a chance to produce some more editorial photos of Brett Dietz the Quarterback. Tonight I shot the pre-season game against their long time rival, the Orlando Predators. The defeated the Orlando Predators 40-16.
A celebrity packed tennis lineup, featuring Andy Roddick, James Blake, Jim Courier, Vera Zvonareva, Victoria Azarenka and Rennae Stubbs came together for the fifth year of the Tampa Tennis Classic. Tampabay Lightning’s Stephane Veilleux, equipped with some unusual tennis fashion, took on Andy Roddick as part of the game. I don’t really blame him. A couple of years ago at this same event, I caught one of Andy’s 150 mph serves in the neck. Let’s say it left a lasting impression. The event benefits Raymond James Courier’s Kids, a program founded by Jim Courier.
Tonight was the opening night of the Taylor Swift “Fearless” Tour. What a great show and a shining new Star. I have never seen anyone take so long to go through a meet and greet. Taylor met and hugged each and everyone of her fans. Saw some familiar faces backstage. Taylor, hope you enjoy the book, Robert next time let me know your coming and I’ll bring the “bangers and mint jelly”!
